This medication is used to treat a certain nervous
system disorder that can lead to muscle weakness and muscle loss (spinal
muscular atrophy). Onasemnogene abeparvovec is made from a certain virus
that has been specially prepared. The virus is used to carry a certain
human gene into cells. This type of treatment is known as gene therapy.
Treatment may improve motor function.
This medication is given by slow injection into a vein
as directed by the doctor. It is given as a single dose. The dosage is
based on your child's body weight.
Small amounts of virus may shed from the child's stool
for up to 1 month after the injection. Ask the doctor how to handle and
dispose of waste materials (such as diapers) for up to 1 month after the
injection.
See also Warning section.
Vomiting may occur. If this effect lasts or gets worse,
tell the doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because the doctor has judged that the benefit to your child is greater
than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not
have serious side effects.
Tell the doctor right away if your child has any serious
side effects, including:
- easy bleeding/bruising
- signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of
urine)
Get medical help right away if your child has any very
serious side effects, including:
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before this medication is given, tell the doctor or
pharmacist if your child has any allergies. This product may contain
inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems.
Talk to the pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell the doctor or
pharmacist your child's medical history, especially of:
- liver problems (including cirrhosis, fatty liver disease,
hepatitis B or C)
- current/recent infection
Onasemnogene abeparvovec may make current infections
worse. Stay away from anyone who has an infection that may easily spread
(such as chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, flu). Talk to the doctor if your
child has been exposed to an infection or for more details.
Tell the health care professional that your child has
received this medication before having any immunizations/vaccinations.
Avoid contact with people who have recently received live vaccines (such as
flu vaccine inhaled through the nose).
Before having surgery, tell the doctor or dentist about
all the products your child uses (including prescription drugs,
nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
This medication is not usually used by adults. It is
unlikely to be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consult your doctor
if you have any questions about this medication.
Drug interactions may change how your child's
medications work or increase the risk for serious side effects. This
document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of
all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and
herbal products) and share it with the doctor and pharmacist. Do not start,
stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without the doctor's
approval.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Lab and/or medical tests (such as liver function,
complete blood count) must be done before your child starts receiving this
medication and after your child receives it. Keep all medical and lab
appointments.
After receiving this treatment, your child cannot donate
blood, organs, tissues, or cells.
Not applicable. This type of product is given in a
hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.
Your condition can cause complications in a medical
emergency. For information about enrolling in MedicAlert, call
1-888-633-4298 (US) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).